MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 CAUTION — Licorice root causes pseudoaldosteronism (sodium retention, potassium wasting, blood pressure elevation) that directly opposes Losartan. Avoid licorice root if taking antihypertensive medications, or use DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) which lacks this effect.
Evidence level: STRONG
Licorice root raises blood pressure through pseudoaldosteronism — it tricks your body into retaining salt and water. Losartan blocks angiotensin II receptors to lower blood pressure, but it cannot counteract the separate mineralocorticoid pathway that licorice activates. Your blood pressure may rise despite taking Losartan faithfully.
Glycyrrhizin in licorice root inhibits 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2, causing cortisol to activate mineralocorticoid receptors (pseudoaldosteronism). This causes sodium retention, potassium wasting, and blood pressure elevation — directly opposing the antihypertensive action of Losartan.
Eliminate licorice root from your supplement regimen while taking Losartan. Unlike ACE inhibitors, Losartan (an ARB) does not cause cough as a side effect, which is why many patients are switched to it — but it shares the same vulnerability to licorice interference. Check labels on digestive supplements and herbal teas. DGL licorice is safe because the glycyrrhizin has been removed.
Be consistent with how you take Losartan relative to meals — take it with food or without food consistently each day. Licorice Root — sudden large changes in diet composition can affect how your body processes many medications. Grapefruit, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods are the most common food-drug interaction culprits.
Higher risk for: elderly, those with liver or kidney impairment, polypharmacy (5+ medications), recent medication changes, or those with multiple chronic conditions. Consult your pharmacist for specific risk factors.
Rising blood pressure despite medication, headache, swelling in legs/ankles, muscle weakness or cramps, irregular heartbeat (from low potassium).
No urgent need to discuss, but always keep your doctor informed of your full supplement and medication list. An up-to-date list helps them make the best treatment decisions.
Adjust the timing or quantity of Licorice Root relative to your medication. Maintain consistent daily intake rather than large sporadic amounts. Your pharmacist can advise on specific timing windows.
Licorice root raises blood pressure through pseudoaldosteronism — it tricks your body into retaining salt and water. Losartan blocks angiotensin II receptors to lower blood pressure, but it cannot counteract the separate mineralocorticoid pathway that licorice activates. Your blood pressure may rise despite taking Losartan faithfully.
Be consistent with how you take Losartan relative to meals — take it with food or without food consistently each day. Licorice Root — sudden large changes in diet composition can affect how your body processes many medications. Grapefruit, leafy greens, and high-fiber foods are the most common food-drug interaction culprits.
Rising blood pressure despite medication, headache, swelling in legs/ankles, muscle weakness or cramps, irregular heartbeat (from low potassium).
Adjust the timing or quantity of Licorice Root relative to your medication. Maintain consistent daily intake rather than large sporadic amounts. Your pharmacist can advise on specific timing windows.
No urgent need to discuss, but always keep your doctor informed of your full supplement and medication list. An up-to-date list helps them make the best treatment decisions.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).